    [Public Papers of the Presidents of the United States: George W. Bush (2004, Book III)]
    [November 30, 2004]
    [Pages 3025-3026]
    [From the U.S. Government Publishing Office www.gpo.gov]

    Statement on the Resignation of Tom Ridge as
    Secretary of Homeland Security
    November 30, 2004

        Tom Ridge has been a key member of my Cabinet, working to help make
    America safer and stronger. As the Nation's first Assistant to the
    President for Homeland Security and first Secretary of Homeland
    Security, he oversaw the most extensive reorganization of the Federal
    Government in 50 years. His efforts have resulted in safer skies,
    increased border and port security, and enhanced measures to safeguard
    our critical infrastructure and the American public. In the fight
    against terrorism, he

    [[Page 3026]]

    has played a vital role in protecting the American people from a real
    and ongoing threat.
        Tom has served America for decades, including as a decorated Army
    soldier, as a United States Congressman, and as Governor of
    Pennsylvania. He is a long-time friend, and I thank him for his
    leadership and dedicated service to our country. America is safer and
    our Government is better able to protect our people because of his hard
    work. I wish him and Michele all the best.

     Note: The Office of the Press Secretary also made available Secretary
    Ridge's letter of resignation.